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Who is telling the truth? Beaches Resort denies cancelling mediation meeting; time for TRANSPARENCY

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#Providenciales, Turks and Caicos – November 3, 2020 — “Beaches did not cancel the mediation,” informed Beaches Resort in a statement issued to Magnetic Media just moments ago.  This latest media comment comes about 24 hours after local newspaper, TCI Sun published that Sharlene Robinson,  Turks and Caicos Premier and Finance Minister said the resort cancelled the November 18, 2020 mediation meeting.

Beaches has countered that it remains ready to negotiate in the near five-year old tax dispute.

“Beaches has always been and remains ready, willing and able to resolve this matter in a fair, equitable and transparent manner.  The tax matters and the breaches of Beaches Development Agreement, can be resolved in a day or two. This can be achieved only if there is a strong commitment, sincerity, good faith and capable decision makers sitting down together.  Our team continues to stand ready.”

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The volley of highly charged comments in the multi-million dollar row has played out in the public domain and has polorised people on the matter. 

Beaches Resort wants the mediation to begin now and suggests the process can be concluded before November 18.  November 18 is the day the resort, which employs nearly 2,000 people and which accounts for 70 percent of the country’s long stay visitors has set as its reopening amidst the coronavirus pandemic.  November 18 is also the day the TCI Government has said it would meet with the mediator in the Beaches Resort legal matter.

Now, the resort is calling on the TCI government to show the public a set of confidential communication.

“…since the TCIG now seems to have no issues speaking to the press, then it should let the people of the TCI and Beaches employees know the truth about the mediation. Let’s have full disclosure. We call on the TCIG to publish the letter dated October 29, 2020 which was sent to Beaches and which TCIG  wished to be treated as confidential, and to then also publish Beaches’ response.  Beaches consents to the publication of its letter.  Let the citizens decide for themselves.

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Let the people of the TCI know about Freedom of the Press unless TCIG wishes to take away their constitutional right.”

A second-time-around headline by the Turks and Caicos Weekly News ignited a firestorm of demands and comments.  A $76 million dollar possible tax write off made the news in 2019 when legislation and an amnesty related to the Hotel & Tourism Tax Ordinance was being debated. 

At that time, there was admission that the monies had accumulated as a result of government penalty charges.  House of Assembly members including three former finance ministers, namely:  Washington Misick, Royal Robinson and Derek Taylor supported ‘writing-off’ the accrued penalties. 

Beaches Turks and Caicos, the family all-inclusive brand owned by Sandals Resorts International explains, they were unaware of this news focus in2019,which again made news headlines over the weekend.

“Beaches also wishes to make it clear that is has never received a copy of any audit report and the first time Beaches knew of an alleged $76M tax write off was in the press.”

There was also this caution from Sandals Resorts executives, as this issue has become prime material as the Turks and Caicos inches closer to a general election.

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“Let us however be very clear.  Beaches will not allow its brand to be used for political propaganda or as a political football.  Beaches has no interest in playing politics. Our concern is for our team members and the citizens of the TCI.”

UPDATED & CORRECTED: The Attorney General, RhondaLee Braithwaite-Knowles informs late today she is in Turks and Caicos; though her automatic e-mail reply had previously informed that she was out of office, not necessarily out of the country, until November 9.  Earlier we reported that the AG was out of the country.

Magnetic Media, was in response to our questions about the mediation meeting, redirected by AG Braithwaite-Knowles to the Office of the Premier.

Magnetic Media is a Telly Award winning multi-media company specializing in creating compelling and socially uplifting TV and Radio broadcast programming as a means for advertising and public relations exposure for its clients.

Health

TCI Hospital CEO Dr. Denise Braithwaite-Tennant Named Finalist for Caribbean Global Award

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Deandrea Hamilton | Editor

 

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – July 14, 2025 – InterHealth Canada – Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital is celebrating a major milestone, as its Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Denise Braithwaite-Tennant, has been named a finalist in the Global Visionary Doctor Leader category of the Caribbean Global Awards 2025.

This recognition highlights Dr. Braithwaite-Tennant’s outstanding commitment to advancing healthcare in the Turks and Caicos Islands through transformative leadership, strategic development, and dedication to patient care. Under her guidance, the TCI Hospital has consistently raised its standards, expanded critical services, and improved community wellness outcomes.

“We are excited to share some wonderful news that brings pride to the TCI Hospital,” the institution said in a public announcement. “Dr. Braithwaite-Tennant’s visionary leadership has not only transformed our hospital facilities but has also significantly impacted the broader healthcare landscape in the Turks and Caicos Islands.”

The Caribbean Global Awards celebrate the achievements of professionals of Caribbean heritage who are making significant contributions in healthcare, innovation, and development around the world.                                                                                                                                                                         In the Global Visionary Doctor Leader category, Dr. Braithwaite-Tennant is one of five outstanding nominees. The other finalists represent the United States, Trinidad and Tobago (two nominees), and St. Lucia.

The 2025 edition of the awards will culminate with a black-tie gala on September 27 at the prestigious Cumberland Hotel in London, United Kingdom. The event will bring together leaders, professionals, and dignitaries from across the Caribbean diaspora to recognize excellence and visionary impact across sectors.

Dr. Braithwaite-Tennant’s nomination marks a proud moment not only for the hospital but for the entire Turks and Caicos Islands, positioning the territory alongside global leaders in healthcare innovation.

“We are immensely proud of Dr. Braithwaite-Tennant’s achievements and are honoured to have her at the helm of the TCI Hospital,” the hospital’s statement continued. “This nomination is a testament to her dedication to the people of these islands.”

Supporters across the territory are being encouraged to extend congratulations and follow the awards journey as Dr. Braithwaite-Tennant represents the Turks and Caicos Islands on the global stage.

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Rotary Club of Providenciales 2024-2025 Year in Review: Approximately 300 Children Assessed for Eyeglasses.  

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Some students who received free eyeglasses

Monday, July 7th, 2025 – “It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as President of the Rotary Club of Providenciales over the past year,” -Roma Stubbs. The period was characterized by a dedication to community development, educational support, and environmental responsibility. “As I reflect on the initiatives we carried out, I am proud of what we were able to achieve through collaboration, shared purpose, and a strong sense of civic responsibility,” shared the immediate Past President.

In the spirit of promoting peace and unity, the Rotary Club of Providenciales (RCOP) started the Rotary year by successfully planting two Peace Poles, one in Grace Bay and the other at the Edward Gartland Youth Centre. These Peace Poles—each inscribed with the message “May Peace Prevail on Earth” in English, French, and Spanish—stand as powerful visual symbols of Rotary’s commitment to fostering harmony in our communities.

Education remained a core pillar of the Club’s work. Dictionaries were donated to primary schools in the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI), ensuring that students had access to essential learning tools. The Club also launched a reading initiative called Read-Rama across several primary schools. This included volunteer-led reading sessions designed to foster a love for reading and support early language development.

To support the development of confident, articulate young leaders, the RCOP contributed funds toward a high school speech competition. This event gave students a platform to express their views on critical social issues and practice public speaking. It was inspiring to see their talent and passion for positive change, and we are proud to have played a role in elevating their voices.

Finally, recognizing the direct link between health and academic success, the Club, in collaboration with Dr. Julian Petrucci from Menzies Optometry and Sailrock, organized free eye exams for primary school children on the Islands of South Caicos, North and Middle Caicos, and Grand Turk. The RCOP conducted nearly 300 eye exams and subsequently donated over 50 pairs of eyeglasses to students diagnosed with visual impairments. Many of these children had been struggling in silence due to undiagnosed issues, and the feedback from families and educators was amazingly positive.                                                                                                                                                                                                                            None of these accomplishments would have been possible without the support of the Club’s dedicated members, volunteers, and community partners. Together, everyone demonstrated the power of collective action and the impact of compassionate leadership.

Immediate Past President Roma Stubbs concluded by stating, “As I conclude my term as President, I am filled with gratitude and optimism. The seeds we planted this year—both literal and metaphorical—will continue to grow, nourished by the ongoing efforts of this incredible Club”. Thank you all for an unforgettable year of service and achievement.

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THE 23rd ANNUAL JADOT CUP DINNER & GOLF TOURNAMENT RAISES OVER $30,000 FOR THE TURKS & CAICOS HEALTH AND WELLNESS FOUNDATION (TCHWF)

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The winning team of the 23rd Annual Jadot Cup Golf Tournament

Monday, July 7th, 2025 – The 23rd Annual Jadop Cup Dinner and Golf Tournament marked another successful weekend.  The weekend commenced on Friday, June 20th, with a dinner hosted by the Wine Cellar. Attendees arrived at the elegant Lua Restaurant & Bar, located at the South Bank Resort, and were greeted with a thoughtfully prepared welcome drink by Paolo Patitucci of Cocktail Perfetto.

Guests relished a five-course meal, with every dish meticulously paired with wines from the Kobrand portfolio. They observed as the talented young artist, Bryanca Brown, crafted a piece to symbolize the evening. This unique painting was auctioned live alongside other prizes, with all proceeds allocated to support the essential work of the TC Health and Wellness Foundation (TCHWF).

The entertainment continued on Sunday, June 22nd, with the Jadot Cup Golf Tournament held at the Royal Turks and Caicos Golf Club. Nineteen teams convened to support this distinguished event. Following an engaging afternoon on the golf course, participants assembled at the #19 Bar and Restaurant to partake in a sumptuous buffet-style meal and to subsequently reveal the winners of this year’s competition. Congratulations to this year’s first-place team: Mark Fulford, Mervin Cox, Carl Simmons, and Perry Delancy.

The weekend successfully generated funds to support community health education, outreach initiatives, and individuals living with HIV/AIDS in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The TC Health and Wellness Foundation extends heartfelt gratitude to all who participated and enjoyed the weekend with us. A special appreciation is extended to our board members, our sponsors, donors, volunteers, and the community for their invaluable support. Your contributions have been instrumental in the success of TCHWF.

Sponsors of the 2025 Jadot Cup Dinner and Golf Tournament:

Beaches Hartling Group Projetech
Bordier Bank Hemingway’s PTS Equipment Rental
Bugaloos Hugh O’Neil Law Firm Royal Turks and Caicos Golf Club
Cargo Express Services Limited Island Bargains Red Hospitality
Casablanca J & W Construction Ritz Carlton
CBMS Jai’s Sailrock
Coco Bistro Karam & Missick Seven Stars
Dive Provo KB Homes Somewhere Café
Finishing Touch King Ocean Services Sotheby’s
Flamingo Pharmacy Miller Simons O’Sullivan TCI Lotto Games
Gartland Family Nila Destinations The Summit
Grace Bay Club NW Hamilton The Wine Cellar
Grace Bay Medical Ocean Club Turks Tequila
Graceway Supermarkets Opus Restaurant Twa, Marcelin, Wolf Law
Grant Thornton Pelican Bay Wymara

 

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